Pennsylvania in the early 2000s put antler restrictions in place and increased doe permits. It was very controversial, especially with hunters who saw fewer deer.

The management people said it was because the herd was too thick and actually consuming too much new growth. there was a lot of back and forth over it. (I was in seminary and hunting that state at the time).

I think they may have gone to another system since then.


I'm more of meat hunter myself. This year, I'm of a mind for holding for a good set of antlers. I didn't do the scouting I wanted, though, so we'll see. Backstraps are always tempting, too.